H.R. McMaster, a distinguished military officer and former U.S. National Security Advisor, shares insights from his extensive career in strategy and leadership. He discusses the complex process behind crafting the 2017 National Security Strategy, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and clear communication. McMaster also highlights the evolving challenges of U.S. foreign policy, particularly with China, and the relentless pressure that strategic leaders face. His experiences in navigating bureaucratic dynamics provide a fascinating glimpse into the intricacies of national security.

In this podcast, Hoover senior fellows Niall Ferguson, John Cochrane, and H.R. McMaster answer viewers' questions, discussing topics like China's economic or military tipping point, the reliability of doom mongers, US debt and interest rates, productivity and innovation, US foreign policy towards NATO under a potential Trump presidency, and hypothetical roles in a future President McMaster administration.

Amy Zegart, Niall Ferguson, John Cochrane, and H.R. McMaster discuss Israel's intel failure, TikTok's national security threat, campus unrest, anti-American sentiment, and Austrian economics in South America. They also debate the best fast-food burger and playfully discuss their chances in a UFC fight.

Hoover senior fellows Niall Ferguson, John Cochrane, and H.R. McMaster discuss topics such as a possible re-embrace of Western heritage, the potential for a third world war, India and Pakistan's outlooks, Trump's second-term objectives, Argentinian president's pro-market policies, the use of profanity in public discourse, and thoughts on Davos. They also joke about forming a blues band and share recommended books.

H.R. McMaster, a retired general and former national security advisor to President Trump, shares insights from his turbulent time in the White House. He discusses the internal conflicts and differing agendas among staff that complicated decision-making. McMaster reveals how he navigated these challenges while offering candid advice to Trump, reflecting on the significance of Stoic philosophy in leadership. He also contrasts Trump's leadership style with past presidents and emphasizes the need for unity and trust to restore faith in American institutions.

Hoover senior fellows Niall Ferguson, John Cochrane, and H.R. McMaster discuss Trump's close call with assassination, Biden's sudden exit from the race, and Harris emerging as a potential Democratic nominee. They explore the impact on party strategies and Trump's influence on the GOP, analyzing J.D. Vance's political prospects and cautioning on Biden's term pitfalls. Speculations include Biden's future actions, potential shocks before the election, and readiness for unforeseen events.

Hoover senior fellows Niall Ferguson, H.R. McMaster, and John Cochrane discuss escalating hostilities in the Middle East, the uncertainty of economic assumptions, and the odds of Cold War 2 turning into World War III. They also talk about the search for new university presidents, the state of the economy, and predictions on world leaders and ongoing wars.

Two conflicts present two challenges: a Ukrainian counteroffensive turned stalemate; and Israel’s survival as it confronts Hamas (and possibly Hezbollah and Iran). Russ Roberts, Hoover’s John and Jean De Nault Research Fellow and president of Jerusalem’s Shalem College, joins Hoover senior fellows Niall Ferguson. H.R. McMaster, and John Cochrane to discuss Israel’s morale and strategic choices amid a month-long wartime crisis. Then Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, former commanding general of US Army Europe, makes the case for anticipating a positive outcome—Ukraine expelling Russian forces, winning back its land—in a war nearing its 21-month mark.

Karl Rove, Niall Ferguson, H.R. McMaster, and John Cochrane discuss the odds of a Biden-Trump rematch. They analyze the latest in the Middle East, including the potential for eradicating Hamas. The 'lightning round' explores Vladimir Putin’s peace overtures, Sam Altman's return to OpenAI, an ascendant Right on two continents, and the legacy of the Rolling Stones.

Jonah Goldberg discusses differences with Niall Ferguson, Biden/Trump gerontocracy, and European elections. Debate on US vs. Soviet Union similarities, Joe Biden's nomination uncertainty, leftward shifts in UK and France elections, Russian interference in US elections, stablecoins, and dog recommendations.